Sheffield-based tattoo artist Joshua Beatson creates dark, horror-inspired work from his own studio, Everblack Tattoo Co.

Combining classic horror movies with his love of all things gothic and gory, Joshua’s richly detailed and frequently disturbing tattoo art is just the thing to get us in the mood for the spookiest time of the year.

We started Halloween month right by chatting with Joshua about how he learned the dark art of tattooing, why horror movies aren’t what they used to be, and the surprising music you might just hear in his studio!

When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be an artist in some way! Drawing was the only thing I really enjoyed, and once I discovered tattooing that was always the goal.

How did you get into tattooing, and how long have you been doing it for?

I started out in a local studio working on weekends whilst at college. I started doing some tattooing there but quickly realised my art abilities weren’t where I wanted them to be, so I decided to quit for a few years to focus on drawing. I’ve now been tattooing for over 9 years.

When did you start up Everblack Tattoo Co, and who works there with you?

I opened Everblack in late 2018 with my business partner Ben who runs ClearLase Tattoo Removal. We were soon joined by Steve Upton, and within the last two years by Akos Keller, Steph Milburn and Caroline Smart.

How do you choose when to use colour and when not to?

Mostly just when I think it could be effective in the design, or if I get an idea that I think will work. Colour isn’t really my strong suit as I don’t have much experience using it, but it is fun from time to time - and stressful!

Do you prefer tattooing images from films, or your own compositions?

Tattooing stuff from film and TV is always fun, because they’re known characters and recognisable, but I prefer working from my own reference and photography; I get to be more creative and have fun with the process.

Can you talk us through your workstation?

I’ve used Silverback Ink for most of my career, I like a simple black/dark/medium/light set up to keep things high contrast, and always cartridges from KWADRON. I use the Flux Max 4.0 from FK Irons, it’s a very versatile machine and the stroke suits how I work. I also use Dan Kubins for larger groupings and blackwork.

Which tattoo artists are doing amazing work right now?

There are so many amazing artists out there and you discover new ones everyday. Some of my favourites are Buena Vista, Hokowhitu Sciascia, Damn J, Jason Butcher, and I think my coworker Steve is doing some of the nicest black and grey in the UK.

Are there any horror tattoo themes you’d love to do but haven’t had the chance yet?

Ah so many! I’ve never done a Baphomet tattoo which is a shame, I’d never get bored of horror tattoos especially more folklore creatures. And there are so many horror film characters I’d love to tattoo.

Have you had any tattoo horror stories?

I’ve been lucky in that I haven’t had many - one time a guy grabbed my machine out of my hand when I started doing the white highlights, that didn’t go down so well!

What’s your favourite horror film or franchise of the last 10 years?

I don’t think you’ll ever beat horror from the 70s to the 90s, I think they’ve run out of ideas now. The Conjuring ones are pretty good though!

If you could be murdered by any movie monster or killer, who would it be?

 I’d go Predator. Or maybe Jason Vorhees; I’m pretty fat but I'm sure I could outrun him.

What’s your advice for excellent aftercare?

Second Skin always, it’s just easy! Disinfect the skin with alcohol (clients don’t really like it mind you) and then wrap it in Second Skin for 5-6 days. It’s easy, safe, and heals tattoos amazingly!

Do you listen to music or put on movies while you work?

Most of the time music; we have a painfully varied playlist at the studio, it’s got some right shite on it. Mostly country and ABBA if I get my way.

What’s your favourite thing to do outside of tattooing?

Painting! During lockdown I finally had time to learn how to oil paint and it’s become an obsession, most of my free time is spent painting now. Plus, it means I get to use colour!

What advice do you have for apprentice artists?

Be better than everyone else, and don’t go into a studio with a portfolio of digital drawings, because that isn’t impressing anyone. Work hard, get a solid portfolio of traditionally drawn pieces, go get tattooed by artists you want to learn from, and show them your work!

How much of your body is covered in tattoos, and do you have a favourite?

I’d say the majority of my body is covered. I’ve had a number of pieces removed over the years (bad young mistakes) and still a few gaps on my legs left. Probably my favourite is my forearm or full torso, both by Buena Vista Tattoo Club in Germany.

How do you wind down after a day of work?

Paint…or nap, I do love a good nap mind you. But also just relaxing with my partner, getting some food and watching a film is a favourite.

Which conventions are you headed to next?

I only really like to do a couple a year - I’m a recluse to be honest, I like to be in my corner at the studio, I'm not too good in social situations. But I’ll be doing Tattoo Tea Party and Leeds Expo next year, at least.

What does the future hold for Joshua Beatson?

I’m going to say tattooing and painting…I should probably get some different hobbies. But my work is my life and I love it. I just want to get better, focus and develop myself further, that’s the most important thing in tattooing to me, striving to be better. The pursuit of mastery and all.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this chat with Joshua Beatson, and don’t forget to track him down on Instagram and Everblack Tattoo Co. on Facebook to see more of his work, and book in that Baphomet tattoo you’ve always wanted!